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1. VTME Vertical Transportation Systems Consultants, Dubai, UAE
Tel: +97142636647
Fax: +97142636674
E-Mail: info@vtmeconsulting.com
www.vtmeconsulting.com
Fire engulfs Torch Tower
“But on our way down, the elevator shut down on
the 35th floor because the water had reached it, so
we escorted them to safety through the stairs.”
"Water started to pour from the light panels in the
ceiling of the elevator with the doors shut, trapping
the residents and firemen in the lift."
The recent fire accident at The Torch is yet another grim
reminder of the difficulties in high rise emergency
evacuation. It also reminds the building design consultants
(Architects) and developers of the necessity in designing
'extra-durable' fire fighter's elevators. When suitably
equipped, elevators can help in faster fire fighting and
elevators can greatly assist in reducing the evacuation time
on high rise towers.
Here are our recommendations:
• Take the help of professional Elevator Consultants and Fire-Life safety consultants in reviewing &
adopting the best suitable evacuation concept.
• Elevator consultants can advise you on improving the 'sturdiness' of fire fighting elevators, to make
them available for an extended period of time. 'Hardened elevators' remain operable even under
harsh environment. Remember to purchase a 'Hardened Elevator' from the elevator supplier.
• Install dedicated elevator evacuation communication systems, which are hard wired to facilitate
reliable communication between the egress floor and the other occupied floors during evacuation.
• Facility Managers should adopt the original evacuation concepts approved for each project without
fail. Identify suitable evacuation management personnel for each floor [floor captain] and provide
complete training on the fire alarm, fire protection and emergency communication tools that have
been installed on each building.
• Conduct regular evacuation drills and educate the occupants on interpreting various smoke and fire
alarm signals and emergency messages.
• Avoid using a service elevator as the designated fire fighter's elevator. If it is inevitable, then
develop stringent and frequent inspections for this dual purpose elevator in order to maintain it in
good working condition, 24/7. Record deficiencies, monitor timely rectification such deficiencies.
Maintain attic spares on site for essential components.